The Chicago White Sox opened the 2022 season with huge expectations.
However, they finished 81-81 and missed the playoffs in a disastrous season under Tony La Russa.
The experienced manager is no longer in charge, and the hungry franchise wants to return to October in 2023.
It won’t be easy, because of several factors.
One, the Cleveland Guardians (surely) and the Minnesota Twins (likely) are better than them.
And two, they had a horrible offseason in the eyes of many, including some analysts and fans.
We graded each MLB club's offseason. Did your team pass or fail?https://t.co/BWstsGSgiE pic.twitter.com/b3dYFAvOmV
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) January 31, 2023
Of course, these exercises are always subjective and depend on the view of each person.
However, we can all agree that Chicago didn’t do much to improve its chances.
They were in on more than a few big free agents, but only signed Mike Clevinger – currently under investigation by MLB following allegations of domestic violence and child abuse – and Andrew Benintendi.
They lost longtime slugger and former MVP Jose Abreu, and didn’t do anything to fix their second base situation.
They have what it takes to improve their .500 record from last year, but not much more.
As things currently stand, it’s hard to see the pale hose competing with the Cleveland Guardians and the Minnesota Twins.
Per The Athletic, both the Twins and the Guards had B+ offseasons.
The former brought Carlos Correa back and added pitcher Pablo Lopez, while the latter signed catcher Mike Zunino and first baseman Josh Bell to fortify their lineup.
Those two appear likely to fight for the AL Central title as the White Sox look to reminisce on better times.
NEXT: White Sox Fan Takes A Shot At The Front Office
